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I have experimented a bit with the ladder locks and 1/2" grosgrain ribbon for tie-outs. Inspired by the Prusik knot on my cinch buckles (that I made according to Blackbishop's instructions) I thought I could kill two birds with one stone and get an integrated tarp tensioner while not having to sew on the ladder lock buckles. So, I took a short loop of 3/32" shock cord, attached the ladder lock with a Prusik, and likewise attached the whole thing to the tarp tie-out. I hope the picture illustrates what I'm talking about.

I was pretty proud of myself for the great idea until I tested it. The 3/32" shock cord is clearly too thin. I have to stretch it all the way to its limit to get enough tension on the tarp, and I am more than a bit concerned about the shock cord failing under the load. Otherwise, this method works really well and the grosgrain seems to hold fine in the ladder lock buckle. Unfortunately, all I have left is 3/32" and 1/4" shock cord, the former being too thin and the latter way too big. I will be ordering some 1/8" and 3/16" shock cord to experiment with.

In the meantime, I was wondering if anybody who uses shock cord on their guylines has any recommendations for what size to use, and how long a length of cord is required.

I have experimented a bit with the ladder locks and 1/2" grosgrain ribbon for tie-outs. Inspired by the Prusik knot on my cinch buckles (that I made according to Blackbishop's instructions) I thought I could kill two birds with one stone and get an integrated tarp tensioner while not having to sew on the ladder lock buckles. So, I took a short loop of 3/32" shock cord, attached the ladder lock with a Prusik, and likewise attached the whole thing to the tarp tie-out. I hope the picture illustrates what I'm talking about.

I was pretty proud of myself for the great idea until I tested it. The 3/32" shock cord is clearly too thin. I have to stretch it all the way to its limit to get enough tension on the tarp, and I am more than a bit concerned about the shock cord failing under the load. Otherwise, this method works really well and the grosgrain seems to hold fine in the ladder lock buckle. Unfortunately, all I have left is 3/32" and 1/4" shock cord, the former being too thin and the latter way too big. I will be ordering some 1/8" and 3/16" shock cord to experiment with.

In the meantime, I was wondering if anybody who uses shock cord on their guylines has any recommendations for what size to use, and how long a length of cord is required.

1/8" has been working just fine for me for quite a few years. As for length, I just eyeball what looks appropriate and make a loop.